Greece Digital Nomad Visa: Your Ticket to Paradise (2024)

If there’s one commonality most individuals share coming out of the pandemic, it is the desire to travel and explore the world. Often, this is made possible by acquiring a tourist visa or residency rights through one of the Golden Visas.While both options are ideally suited to third-country nationals, there is a new alternative visa for those planning on residing in a nation for a period longer than three months without having to invest or be a registered tax resident there. This visa is the Digital Nomad Visa.

In this article, we discuss the Greece Digital Nomad Visa:

• A brief overview
• Benefits of living in Greece
• Eligibility requirements
• Application process
• Step-by-step guide
• Required documents
• Taxes to consider

Launched in 2021, the Greek Digital Nomad Visa is a travel authorization document that enables non-EU and non-EEA citizens working remotely to establish residency in Greece and legally work there for up to 12 months, provided they meet the visa requirements. It also permits them the right to bring along their immediate family members, albeit for an additional fee.

Benefits of Living in Greece as a Digital Nomad

Living in Greece as a digital nomad presents a variety of benefits that cater to both professional and personal lifestyles. The nation is not only adored by tourists and locals alike, but it has been attracting many digital nomads, retirees, and Greece Golden Visa investors, for a good reason. The Greek property market is thriving and yielding high returns for investors. The cost of living in Greece is so affordable that individuals can save a lot more by working remotely in the nation or retiring there, and health coverage is top-tier as well. There are more reasons to move there than not, and the process for the visa application is quite simple.

Warm weather all year round

Greece is renowned for its pleasant Mediterranean climate, offering warm and sunny weather throughout the year. This climate is ideal for digital nomads who prefer working in a bright and cheerful environment. Whether it’s working from a beachside café in summer or enjoying the mild winters, Greece’s weather greatly enhances the quality of life.

Delicious Mediterranean cuisine

Greece is known for its people, culture, and cuisine, which is why many individuals travel to it every year. Those who live in Greece get to enjoy benefits such as basking in warm weather all year round, feasting on delicious Mediterranean cuisine, socializing with lively and friendly locals, and indulging in the natural diversity of Greece, among other things.. Rich in fresh vegetables, fruits, olive oil, and seafood, it offers a balanced diet that is both nutritious and enjoyable. Dining in Greece is not just about the food; it’s a cultural experience, often shared with friends and family in a relaxed setting.

Friendly people

Greeks are known for their hospitality and friendliness, making it easier for digital nomads to settle in and feel at home. This warm and welcoming culture is especially beneficial for those looking to immerse themselves in local communities and experience authentic Greek culture.

Natural diversity

From the idyllic islands to the mountainous mainland, Greece’s natural diversity is breathtaking. Digital nomads have the opportunity to explore diverse landscapes, including beautiful beaches, rugged mountains, and lush valleys, providing endless possibilities for adventure and relaxation.

Large English-speaking community

Greece has a large English-speaking community, particularly in its urban areas and tourist hotspots. This makes it easier for digital nomads, especially those who might not be fluent in Greek, to communicate, network, and form connections. Cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, boast a significant expat community, facilitating an easier transition for new residents.

Tax reductions and exemptions

In recent years, Greece has introduced tax incentives to attract digital nomads, including reductions and exemptions on foreign-sourced income. While the new DNV includes benefits from these tax incentives, digital nomads must meet the specific requirements set by the Greek government, These include proving their status as remote workers and the origin of their income.

Excellent healthcare facilities

Greece offers high-quality healthcare services, with excellent facilities available both in private and public sectors. Many healthcare professionals in Greece are trained in the West, ensuring a high standard of medical care. As a digital nomad, it’s advisable to have health insurance that meets the requirements of the Aliens and Immigration Department.

Low cost of living

Compared to other European countries, Greece offers a relatively low cost of living. Basic expenses such as groceries, transportation, and utilities are reasonably priced. In cities like Athens, and even smaller towns, one can find comfortable living options for per-month costs significantly lower than in many Western countries.

Best Greek Cities for Digital Nomads

Greece, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, has become an attractive destination for digital nomads. Here are some of the best cities in Greece for digital nomads, each offering unique experiences and amenities.

Athens

As the capital city and the heart of Greece, Athens is an ideal place for digital nomads looking to live and work in a vibrant urban environment. The city has numerous coworking spaces, cafes with reliable internet connections, and a thriving expat community. For those interested in history and culture, Athens offers an unparalleled experience with its ancient ruins and museums.

Thessaloniki

Known as Greece’s second largest city, Thessaloniki offers a more laid-back atmosphere than Athens. It’s renowned for its rich cultural scene, beautiful waterfront, and lively nightlife. The city has a growing digital nomad community, supported by an array of coworking spaces and a lower cost of living.

Heraklion, Crete

For digital nomads seeking a balance between work and leisure, Heraklion in Crete is an excellent choice. With its stunning beaches, historical sites, and a relaxed lifestyle, it’s a place where one can work efficiently while enjoying the Mediterranean lifestyle. The cost of living is relatively affordable, with options to rent an apartment for least 3,500 euros per month.

Corfu

Corfu is an island that stands out for its lush green landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and Venetian architecture. It’s perfect for those who prefer a quieter setting. The island also offers a variety of outdoor activities, making it a great place to unwind after a day’s work.

Rhodes

This island is another excellent option, especially for those who enjoy a mix of historical exploration and beach life. Rhodes has a robust infrastructure for digital nomads, including reliable internet and coworking spaces.

Chania, Crete

Known for its picturesque old town and beautiful harbor, Chania is a popular destination among digital nomads. It offers a blend of traditional Greek culture and modern amenities, along with an active expat community.

In summary, working remotely in Greece offers the opportunity to explore various parts of the country, from the bustling streets of Athens to the serene beaches of the Greek islands. The country’s decentralized administration allows for a smooth process of settling, whether you base yourself in a major city or a quieter island. With its rich history, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, Greece is a fantastic choice for digital nomads looking to enrich their work-life balance.

Digital nomads planning to travel to Greece should check with the Greek embassy or consulate in their home country for the latest travel and visa information. Additionally, they may need to submit specific documents to the Aliens and Immigration Department upon arrival.

It’s worth noting that it’s also essential to meet the requirements set by the Greek government, including providing a steady income and having comprehensive health insurance. Let’s see the eligibility criteria in the subsequent section.

Eligibility Requirements for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa

Any non-EU or non-EEA third-country national who is self-employed or has a remote job may apply for the Greece Digital Nomad visa and start living in Greece on the condition they meet the following eligibility requirements:

• They must not be employed by a company registered in Greece
• Have clients or be employed by a company based outside of Greece
• Be able to provide their services and complete their work obligations using a stable internet connection and a laptop, i.e., information and communication technology.
• If self-employed, demonstrate proof of their business activity, corporate purpose, and business address, noting that their businesses cannot be registered in Greece.
• Prove they meet the minimum monthly financial requirement of €3,500

Those who are successful in their application will acquire a Greece Digital Nomad Visa with a one-year validity. Once it’s up, individuals can extend their visa for an additional year by applying for the Nomad Residence Permit on the condition they continue to meet the visa’s requirements.

Financial requirements for the Greek Digital Nomad Visa

While the main eligibility requirements for obtaining a remote work visa are typically your foreign nationality and ability to perform your foreign-based job remotely, countries also have financial conditions. These conditions are usually presented as their average monthly income and are set as a requirement to guarantee that individuals have a stable income and can nourish the country’s economy.

As the main applicant for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa, you’ll have to demonstrate proof of earning €3,500 net income per month after tax deductions. If you plan on extending your residency permit to your immediate family and bringing along your partner/spouse, or child, you’ll have to account for additional finances. Usually, this is an extra 20% for your partner/spouse and 15% for any dependent child.

For example, if you intend on bringing along your spouse, you’ll have to demonstrate proof of earning at least €4,200 monthly after tax deductions. If you plan on bringing along your spouse and child, your net income per month must be at least €4,725, and so on.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Acquiring a Remote Work Visa in Greece

1. Gather all the required documents

Before submitting your application to the relevant Greek authorities, you must ensure that you have all the required documents for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa and the Greece Type D Visa. The Type D Visa is what authorizes your stay in Greece and will be discussed shortly after this section.

2. Submit your Greece Digital Nomad Visa application

Where you submit your Greece Digital Nomad Visa application form will depend on your current location. You could either submit your documents to your local Greece Embassy or Consulate or directly to the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum.

If you submit them to a Consulate or Embassy, you have three ways to do so; in person, via e-mail, or by post. Make sure to write the correct address of the political delegation to which you’re submitting your documents.

3. Receive your Digital Nomad visa in Greece

After submitting all your documents, the Greek authorities will evaluate and assess your application within one month. Usually, the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum issues the Greece Digital Nomad Visa within ten days after you lodge your application. Once you receive your visa, you can travel to Greece and start living there.

Documents Required for the Greek Digital Nomad Visa

When it comes to your application for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa, there are a few documents that you have to submit to the relevant Greek authorities. Four of those documents are solely related to your digital nomadism and declare your intention to reside in the nation under the new visa.

The four specific documents that you have to submit for the Greece Digital Nomad Visa are:

• A declaration letter – One of the essential documents you’ll have to attach to your application for the Nomad Visa is a declaration letter stating your intention not to work for a company registered in Greece while you reside there. It should also include relevant details regarding your job or company and showcase your income.

• Proof of employment – To prove that you are a digital nomad capable of performing your work remotely in Greece, you’ll have to submit a valid employment contract confirming your job is headquartered outside Greece. You’ll also have to submit a letter from your employer reiterating that you can complete your work obligations using a laptop and a stable wifi connection.

If you are self-employed and own a company outside of Greece, then you have to submit the following:

– Your company license and registration number
– Your company name
– The field of activity you’re in
– The corporate purpose of your company
– All other relevant documents that prove you are the owner of that company

• Proof of sufficient financial means – To showcase that you do meet the minimum financial requirement, you’ll have to submit the following:

– Your most recent bank statements
– Your company account statements (if self-employed)
– Your employment contract stating your salary
– Any other supporting documents that showcase your income

• Proof of paying the Greece Digital Nomad Visa fee — As with every visa application, you’ll have to pay a visa processing fee to the relevant authorities. In the case of the Greek Nomad Visa, the cost is around €75. Do note that this fee is non-refundable.

Other documents are also required; however, they’re more relevant to the type D Visa – the travel authorization that permits your legal residence in a nation for a certain amount of time.

Documents required for the Greek Type D Visa

As part of your application for the Digital Nomad Visa, you’ll also have to acquire the Greek Type D Visa – or National Visa. This long-term visa is issued to third-country nationals and permits their entry and stay in Greece for a period exceeding 90 days and up to one year – or 365 days.

The documents which are required for the Type D Visa are:

• A visa application form – You’ll have to fill out a National Visa application form stating your “main purpose of travel.” By stating ‘remote work’ under ‘other’ in the application form, the Greek authorities will process your Type D Visa application as a Digital Nomad Visa application.
• A valid passport – Your passport must be valid for a period no less than six months past the date of your departure back to your home country. It must also have two blank pages for your new visa permit.
• Two passport-size photos – You must submit two recent photographs, colored, and taken in front of a white background. Please make sure they are in line with the Schengen Visa photo requirements.
• Proof of accommodation – Seeing as your long-term visa has a validity period of 12 months, you’ll have to show proof of your accommodation in Greece during that time. You can present a rental agreement or any property deed showcasing evidence of your ownership of Greek real estate.
• Proof of sufficient financial means – As covered above in the required documents for the Digital Nomad Visa.
• Proof of valid and comprehensive travel insurance – Make sure you get a long-term insurance policy that covers all medical expenses that may arise during your travels. It is advisable to get one similar to the requirements of the Schengen Visa insurance policy.
• Certificate of a clean criminal record – You must acquire a legal certificate stating your clean criminal record from all countries where you have lived for more than a year. This certificate acts as proof of your high moral standing.
• Return flight ticket – You must present a booking confirmation of a return flight ticket back to your country, demonstrating your intentions not to overstay your visa permit’s validity.
• Health insurance medical certificate – You must get a medical health certificate from a recognized health institution in your country of residence and present it to the relevant Greek authorities. This document will prove that you do not suffer from any contagious diseases that may be of risk to the Greek population.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Greece Digital Nomad Visa